Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders Salary 2025: $38,180 Median
Textile bleaching and dyeing machine operators and tenders earn a median annual salary of $38,180, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage is $40,380, or roughly $18 per hour. Most workers fall between $30,300 (10th percentile) and $48,100 (90th percentile). Employment is limited, at 5,310 jobs nationwide, and the occupation is expected to shrink by 10.1% from 2024 to 2034, though about 700 openings arise each year from turnover.
How much Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders earn
The median pay for this role sits at $38,180, meaning half earn more and half less. The lowest 10% make around $30,300, while the top 10% take home $48,100 or more. Hourly, the mean wage breaks down to about $18. Pay depends heavily on location and industry experience.
- Median annual wage: $38,180
- Mean annual wage: $40,380 ($18/hour)
- 10th percentile: $30,300
- 90th percentile: $48,100
Pay by state
Rhode Island tops the list for highest pay at $45,930, followed by Michigan ($44,720), Mississippi ($43,640), Georgia ($41,960), and South Carolina ($39,410). On the lower end, Alabama pays $33,190, Wisconsin $30,930, and Florida $29,850. The Southeast has a mix of high and low, so location matters more in this declining field.
How to become Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tender
Most workers learn through short-term on-the-job training, often lasting a few weeks. No formal education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some employers prefer applicants with basic math and mechanical skills. Licensing and certification are not standard for this role.
- Typical entry: High school diploma or equivalent
- Training: Short-term on-the-job (usually a few weeks)
- No license or certification needed
- Helpful skills: Attention to detail, color perception, mechanical aptitude
Job outlook
Employment of textile bleaching and dyeing machine operators is projected to decline 10.1% from 2024 to 2034, a steeper drop than the average for all occupations. Automation and overseas competition continue to reduce U.S. textile manufacturing jobs. However, about 700 openings per year are expected, mostly due to workers retiring or leaving the occupation. Opportunities may be best in states still maintaining textile operations, like South Carolina and Georgia.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operator?
The median annual salary is $38,180, with a range of $30,300 (10th percentile) to $48,100 (90th percentile).
How do I become a Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operator?
You typically need a high school diploma and receive short-term on-the-job training. No certification is required.
What is the job outlook for Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators?
The BLS projects a 10.1% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034, with about 700 annual openings primarily due to turnover.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders data.